Traditional British Mincemeat for Christmas Mince Pies

2  cups  shredded beef suet (or grated butter) or 2  cups  shredded vegetable suet (or grated butter)

2  cups light brown sugar

4  cups raisins

4  medium cooking apples

2  cups currants

2  tablespoons candied lemon peel

2  tablespoons  candied orange peel

1  tablespoon  citrus  mixed candied peel

2  teaspoons ground nutmeg

2  teaspoons mace

3  teaspoons ground cloves

1  teaspoon  almond essence

3  tablespoons  blanched almonds

2  tablespoons brandy or 2  tablespoons  apple juice

1  lemon, juice and rind of

2-4  tablespoons orange juice